Winemaker Notes
The 2014 Immortal Slope represents the many aspects, elevations and exposures of the remarkable hillside site. Individual lots from across the property were selected and blended to produce this august cuvée. The wine is dense, ripe and powerful, an effusive vortex of blackberry, toast, brown sugar, allspice, cassis, dark chocolate, earl grey tea, mint, anise, sugar cookie, chai, and tarragon. The palate is massive, but fruit sweet, supple and creamy. It is an experience that will bring you to the mountain, for there is no other place like this.
Professional Ratings
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Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
As for the 2014s, the 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon Slope from the Hidden Ridge vineyard does not suffer in comparison with the extraordinary efforts of 2013. Still a barrel sample, its riveting richness, concentration, texture and density represent another legend in the making. Crème de cassis, licorice, blackberry, earthiness and spice are all present in this magnificent example of Cabernet Sauvignon that should age beautifully for 25-30+ years.
Barrel Sample: 95-97 -
Jeb Dunnuck
The 2014 Slope checks in as a blend of 97% Cabernet Sauvignon 3% Petit Verdot and it spent 27 months in 75% new French oak. It has a rich, opulent style as well as lifted notes of currants, plums, violets, tobacco, and forest floor. It's deep, full-bodied, has beautiful purity, and a rounded, lush, yet quintessential Sonoma minerality and freshness. This is another layered, hedonistic wine that will keep for 15-20 years.
While Sonoma County is acclaimed—and rightfully so—for its Chardonnays, Pinot Noirs, and Zinfandels, it also produces exceptional Cabernet Sauvignon. Of the region’s 18 American Viticultural Areas, only a handful produce top-notch Cabernet Sauvignon. These appellations include Alexander Valley, Knights Valley, Sonoma Valley and Dry Creek Valley. Sonoma Cabernet Sauvignons made in these appellations can offer a complex array of aromas and flavors. Fruit notes such as blackberry, blackcurrant, cassis, black cherry and raspberry often are accompanied by hints of graphite, dusty earth, cigar box, toast and vanilla. The varietal has a rich history in Sonoma, and some of these Cabernet Sauvignons and Cabernet-based blends rival the best from Napa Valley.